Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe candidates who pursue their studies through this Institute are eligible for reimbursement of fees. They are also eligible for an annual allowance of Rs.500/- towards purchase of essential/prescribed books. The prescribed SC/ST scholarship form and other particulars in this connection can be obtained from the SC/ST Cell, Office of the Director, Institute of Distance Education, University of Madras, Chepauk, Chennai - 600 005.

Eligible visually or otherwise physically-challenged candidates, can avail themselves of the State Government Scholarship for the Disabled. The prescribed form may be obtained from the District Rehabilitation Officer in the districts concerned for reimbursement of non-refundable fees.

The eligible SC/ST students are directed to submit the SC/ST scholarship form during their study at IDE only and no SC/ST scholarship application form will be accepted after the period of study at IDE under any circumstance.